Compare and Contrast

Compare and Contrast

Learning Goals

In this lesson, you’ll learn how to compare and contrast two or more things by focusing on similarities and differences.

You’ll practice using compare-and-contrast terminology and writing a compare-and-contrast essay. This will help you better organize your ideas and improve your writing skills, whether you’re comparing two places, people, or ideas.

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Compare and Contrast Terminology

Compare and contrast terminology refers to the words and phrases used to highlight similarities and differences between two or more things. These expressions help you clearly show how things are alike (compare) or how they are different (contrast).

Common Compare and Contrast Words/Phrases

• To Compare (show similarities):
  • Both – used to talk about two things that share something in common.
    Example: Both cats and dogs are popular pets.
  • Similarly – shows how two things are alike in some way.
    Example: Similarly, both cats and dogs need food, water, and shelter.
  • Like – used to draw a comparison between two things.
    Example: Like dogs, cats can be trained to follow commands.
  • In the same way – shows that two actions or qualities are similar.
    Example: In the same way, both animals can provide companionship to humans.
• To Contrast (show differences):
  • However – used to introduce a difference or contrast between two ideas.
    Example: Cats are independent, however, dogs are more social.
  • On the other hand – used to present an opposing or contrasting idea.
    Example: Cats are quiet and calm; on the other hand, dogs can be loud and energetic.
  • Unlike – used to show that two things are different.
    Example: Unlike dogs, cats do not need to be walked every day.
  • But – a simple word to show contrast.
    Example: I like both cats but prefer dogs as pets.
• Both (for similarities) and Neither (for negating both sides):
  • Both – indicates two things share similar characteristics.
    Example: Both coffee and tea are popular drinks worldwide.
  • Neither – used to indicate that two things are not alike or don’t have a certain quality.
    Example: Neither the cat nor the dog likes loud noises.

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Examples

Compare and Contrast Two Animals: Comparison of Cats and Dogs:

Introduction: Cats and dogs are two of the most popular pets around the world. Although both make great companions, they have distinct differences in behavior, care, and interaction with humans.

Body Paragraph 1 (Subject-by-Subject): Cats are often independent and like their alone time. They are low-maintenance pets that require less attention from their owners. In contrast, dogs are social animals that need regular interaction and companionship.

Body Paragraph 2 (Point-by-Point): In terms of exercise, dogs need daily walks to stay healthy, while cats are content with indoor play and don’t require walks.

Conclusion: In conclusion, both cats and dogs make excellent pets, but choosing the right one depends on your lifestyle and ability to give them the attention they need.

Compare and Contrast Two Countries: Comparison of Japan and the United States:

• Introduction: Japan and the United States are two powerful countries with strong economies and rich cultural histories. However, they differ in many aspects, from their educational systems to their food cultures.
• Body Paragraph 1 (Subject-by-Subject): Japan’s educational system is rigorous, with long school days and a focus on academic excellence. On the other hand, the United States has a more flexible education system that encourages creativity and extracurricular activities.
• Body Paragraph 2 (Point-by-Point): In terms of cuisine, Japan is known for its sushi and seafood, while the United States is famous for fast food and barbecue dishes.
• Conclusion: While Japan and the United States share certain similarities, their distinct cultural practices and ways of life set them apart, making each country unique in its own right.

Writing a Compare and Contrast Essay

A compare and contrast essay examines the similarities and/or differences between two subjects, people, places, ideas, or things. The goal is to inform, analyze, and sometimes argue for one side being preferable to the other based on the comparison.

Steps to Write a Compare and Contrast Essay

1. Choose Your Topic:
Pick two subjects that can be compared or contrasted. These subjects should have enough similarities and differences to make the essay interesting. Examples include:

• Apples vs. Oranges
• Public Schools vs. Private Schools
• Summer vs. Winter

2. Develop a Thesis Statement:
The thesis is the main point of your essay. It should briefly summarize the main similarities or differences you will discuss in the essay.
Example Thesis: “Although both apples and oranges are healthy and delicious fruits, apples are better for snacking, while oranges are better for juicing.”

3. Choose Your Structure:
There are two main ways to organize your essay:

• Block Structure (Subject-by-Subject): You discuss all the points about one subject, then all the points about the other subject.
  • Example:
    • Paragraph 1: Apples
    • Paragraph 2: Oranges
• Point-by-Point Structure: You discuss each point of comparison for both subjects in the same paragraph.
  • Example:
    • Paragraph 1: Discuss the taste of both apples and oranges.
    • Paragraph 2: Discuss the nutrition of both apples and oranges.

4. Organize the Body Paragraphs:

• Point-by-Point Structure:
  For each point of comparison, describe how both subjects are alike or different. Use compare-and-contrast terminology to show the relationships between the two subjects.
  • Example Comparison Points: Taste, texture, nutritional value, uses, appearance.
  • Example Paragraph:
    “Both apples and oranges are delicious fruits, but they taste very different. Apples are sweet or tart, depending on the variety, while oranges are generally tangy and refreshing.”

5. Write the Introduction:
Start with a hook (a sentence to grab the reader’s attention), then introduce the subjects you’ll compare or contrast, and end with your thesis statement.

Example Introduction:
“When it comes to fruits, apples and oranges are among the most popular choices worldwide. Both are packed with vitamins and are enjoyed as healthy snacks. However, apples and oranges differ in taste, texture, and usage, which makes each one suitable for different occasions.”

6. Write the Body Paragraphs:
Develop each point of comparison or contrast in separate paragraphs. Each paragraph should focus on one point (e.g., taste, texture, nutritional value).

7. Write the Conclusion:
Summarize the key similarities and differences you discussed. You can also state your personal preference or explain which subject is better for a particular purpose.

Example Conclusion:
“In conclusion, apples and oranges both offer unique tastes and nutritional benefits. While apples are ideal for a quick snack, oranges are better for juicing. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your personal preference and how you intend to enjoy them.”

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You can find more details in the following presentation:

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Learning Activities

EGB

“Match the Terms” (Terminology Practice)

Objective:
To reinforce the use of compare-and-contrast vocabulary and expressions.

How It Works:

1. You’ll be given a list of sentences with missing compare-and-contrast terms. Your job is to complete each sentence with the correct word or phrase (e.g., but, similarly, however, on the other hand).
2. Work in pairs to fill in the blanks. Afterward, compare your answers with another pair or the whole class.

Example Sentences:

• “Cats are independent, _____ dogs are very social.”
• “Both animals can be great pets, _____ they have different needs.”
• “A dog requires more exercise, _____ a cat is content with less activity.”

Materials:
Pre-made sentence worksheets with missing compare-and-contrast terms.

“Subject-by-Subject Comparison Poster”

Objective:
To practice writing a basic comparison by organizing ideas visually.

How It Works:

1. In small groups, choose two things to compare (e.g., online classes vs. in-person classes, smartphones vs. laptops).
2. Draw a large poster or create a mind map, with two columns: one for each subject.
3. List the main similarities and differences between the two subjects using compare-and-contrast language (e.g., similarly, on the other hand, while, but).
4. Once your poster is ready, present it to the class, explaining the similarities and differences using the correct terminology.

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BGU

“Point-by-Point Comparison Debate”

Objective:
To practice organizing and presenting a compare-and-contrast argument using a structured point-by-point format.

How It Works:

1. The class will be divided into two groups. Each group will take a position on a comparison (e.g., social media vs. face-to-face communication, public transportation vs. driving a car).
2. Each group will prepare arguments comparing and contrasting both sides, organizing their arguments point-by-point (e.g., Point 1: Cost, Point 2: Convenience, Point 3: Environmental impact).
3. During the debate, use compare-and-contrast terminology like however, on the other hand, and in contrast to highlight key differences and similarities.
4. After the debate, the class will discuss which side presented the strongest comparison and why.

“Essay Scaffold” (Write a Compare and Contrast Essay)

Objective:
To practice writing a full compare-and-contrast essay using a structured approach.

How It Works:

1. You will be given a prompt to compare and contrast two things (e.g., “Compare and contrast living in a big city with living in a small town.”).
2. Use a scaffolded template to help structure your essay:
   • Introduction: Introduce the subjects and provide a clear thesis (e.g., “This essay will compare and contrast the lifestyle in a big city with the lifestyle in a small town.”).
   • Body Paragraphs: Use a point-by-point approach to compare and contrast specific points (e.g., Work Opportunities, Lifestyle Pace, Social Life).
   • Conclusion: Summarize your points and give your opinion on which lifestyle is better based on your comparison.
3. After writing your drafts, pair up with a classmate for peer review. Give each other feedback on structure, clarity, and use of compare-and-contrast terminology.

“Comparison Chart Challenge” (Timed Activity)

Objective:
To practice writing quickly and clearly by comparing two things in a chart format, using compare-and-contrast language.

How It Works:

1. You will be given a comparison topic (e.g., public schools vs. private schools, books vs. movies).
2. Create a comparison chart with two columns. In each column, write down the similarities and differences for each subject.
3. You will be timed for this task (e.g., 10 minutes), so the focus will be on writing quickly but clearly.
4. After the activity, share your comparison chart with a partner or group, explaining how the comparisons were made using compare-and-contrast terminology.